Cecile L. (Dauplaise) Dumas

Cecile L. Dumas, a gentle and kind mother, sister and friend, died on October 31, 2014. A woman who lost her husband in 2007, relocated to Springfield, MA after living in Florida for 27 years. Leaving behind friends and a way of life, she returned to the city of her youth. After many years of waking to the sounds of the sea, she�d come to hear the woodland sounds of New England again, at Reeds Landing. Less sun, less color, no husband and a cat, she started again. A great surprise arrived for Cecile with the introduction of a remarkable young woman, Jennifer Allard. In the ensuing seven years the two became best friends and helpmates. Jennifer introduced Cecile to technology and the ways of the world in this new century and Cecile shared her experiences from the last one. Theirs was a friendship for the ages, filled with laughter, tears, hopes, aspirations and resignation to the reality of living. Even though they were separated by 65 years, the bridge was short and easily crossed, as the bridge was paved with love. Cecile�s new life consisted of living in independent, assisted and skilled nursing. At each she was provided the care she needed at the time. Her stay in Skilled Nursing was comfortable and especially nice given the care of a staff gifted with talents for nurturing the hope and faith that our end journey will be dignified yet filled with humor, playfulness and joy. We cannot name all the staff involved, it would be too many, but do encourage the world to learn and know of the individuals who care for our loved ones. Our family would like to acknowledge that in our opinion, these are heroes and heroines as they take care of the most personal needs of those entrusted to their safekeeping. Cecile was predeceased by husband Rene and is survived by three natural children and their partners; son Gerard and Brenda of Albuquerque, NM, son Roger and Liz of Ludlow, daughter Carol and Allan Frank of Newtown Square, PA and one shared son Mark Croughwell and Kathy of Palmer. Seven natural grandchildren and five shared grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Cecile also leaves behind three sisters; Theresa Boldys of Ludlow, Irene Porcello of Westfield and Dora Barlow of Enfield, CT and two brothers; John Dauplaise of West Springfield and little brother Gregory of East Longmeadow. Also a very special, cherished niece Jacqueline Boldys, who helped her turn her new quarters into a home. In addition nieces and nephews too many to mention but all important to her world. The family has chosen to have a private service and burial for the immediate family at a future date. We encourage all individuals both family and friends interested in participating in Cecile�s tribute to send flowers or visit or acknowledge a living member of society. It is after all learn as you go, and the power is in the now.